It used to be that workers were expected work strict hours. But now, employers are attempting to offer their employees greater flexibility. If you want to come in late and work late, that’s fine. If you want to come in early and leave early, that’s fine as well.
Technology like email, email fax, cell phones, and instant messaging allow employees to work from home when needed. This can be helpful for a working parent who might need to stay home with a sick child.
With the tech industry setting new corporate standards, many major companies allow casual dress all day every day. Gone is the flannel suit. Gone is the tie.
A smart worker can use these standards to their advantage. With everyone dressing casual, primping a little can go a long way to impress co-workers. Setting an earlier schedule for oneself can make you look on the ball and ready for action. And effective use of email and phone can make your clients feel as if you are always available for them, with a quick response and action at all times.
But this trend can also hurt employees with less personal discipline. A flexible work schedule might tempt someone to sleep in too often. It might tempt them to dress like they just came from the gym. So beware as you groom your career that you use the new current standards to your advantage and not your detriment.
Relevant Tags:casual dress, cell phones, email fax, flexible work schedule, personal discipline